Issue #016

Upcoming Local Events

From the Home Show to comedy, author book signings and kids events, there is something for everyone in the upcoming events in Bowie and the surrounding area. For more detailed information, click on the link provided.

The Month of January

• National Bath Safety Month

• Financial Wellness Month

• Get Organized Month

• National Hot Tea Month

• National Mentoring Month

• Self-Love Month

• Teen Driving Awareness Month

Check for Schedule Changes and Cancellations

January 17

• WineWhiskey Wednesdays, AROMA LOUNGE, 4000 Town Center Boulevard Bowie, MD 20716

January 18

• Ready 2 Read Storytime: Ages 2-3, South Bowie Branch, Prince George’s County Memorial Library System, 15301 Hall Rd, Bowie, MD 20721

January 20

• Electronics Recycling Event, The Public Works Department, 16500 Annapolis Road - 8:00 - 2:00

• Ballin' with the Badge, Benjamin Tasker Middle School, 4901 Collington Rd, Bowie, MD 20715 - 12:00

• Kids' DIY-U Workshop: My First DIY Toolbox, 16301 Heritage Blvd, Bowie, MD, 3:00 - 6:00

• 3rd Annual Vision Board Brunch: 2024 Edition, The Mansion 2706 Church Road Bowie, MD 20721, 11:00am- 1:30pm

• Terri & the Back Alley Rhythm Cats, Old Bowie Town Grille

  8604 Chestnut Ave, Bowie, MD - 7:00pm

January 21

• Outlet Dance Complex Presents: Dancin’ Through Winter, Winter Recital, 11:00 and 3:30

January 22

Old Town Bowie Revitalization Community Meeting at the Huntington Community Center, 13022 8th Street, Bowie, MD - 7:00-8:30

January 26

On Kee Jazz Presents: Jazz in the Black Box, Bowie Center for the Performing Arts - 7:00

January 27

• Candle Making Workshop at 6600 Laurel - Bowie Road Bowie, MD 20715 - 1:00 - 3:30 

• Joe Clair Presents: Bangin’ in Bowie featuring featuring comedians Brooklyn Mike, Timmy Hall, and Cool Bubba Ice, Bowie Center for the Performing Arts - 7:00 and 9:30

January 31

• Free virtual Workforce Development Program Information Session ages 15 - 25 - 7:00pm 

Send us an email if you would like to share a local Bowie event inside of the Bowie Insider; include all of the details.

A Slippery Foe: The Hidden Hazard of Black Ice

With frigid winter temperatures, at or below freezing, blowing through Bowie and Washington D.C. Metropolitan area, in addition to snow, lurks an invisible peril: black ice. It's a phenomenon that not only challenges the experienced locals but also surprises newcomers with its deceptive appearance and potential dangers.

The Invisible Ice

Black ice, contrary to its name, isn't black at all. It's a thin layer of ice that forms on roadways, sidewalks, and driveways, almost invisible to the naked eye. This stealthy ice gets its name because it blends seamlessly with the asphalt beneath it, creating an illusion of a safe, dry surface.

A Crafty Formation

So, what brews this slippery menace? Black ice usually forms when the temperature drops suddenly after a light rain or snow. The moisture on the ground freezes, forming a transparent sheet of ice. It's most commonly seen at dawn or in the late evening when temperatures are lowest, and can be a frequent visitor during our city’s brisk winters.

The Element of Surprise

The real danger of black ice lies in its surprise factor. Motorists often drive unknowingly onto a patch, losing control as tires fail to grip the slick surface. Pedestrians, too, can be caught off guard, leading to potential falls and injuries.

Safety Tips to Tread Carefully

1. Vigilant Driving: Slow down when temperatures are near or below freezing. Even if the road looks clear, assume there could be patches of black ice.

2. Proper Footwear: For pedestrians, shoes with good traction can make a world of difference. Consider using ice grips when walking in icy conditions.

3. Spot the Signs: Look out for clues like ice forming on your windshield or the road appearing glossy.

4. Braking Wisely: If you hit black ice while driving, don’t slam the brakes. Instead, gently lift your foot off the accelerator and steer in the direction you want to go.

5. Illuminate Pathways: For homeowners, ensuring walkways are well-lit can help spot icy patches. Regularly salting these areas is also a good practice.

6. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on local weather reports and heed any warnings about icy conditions.

A Community Effort

As our community navigates through the winter months, awareness and preparedness are key in dealing with black ice. Our local authorities are vigilant, routinely salting roads and issuing weather alerts, but it's a collective effort. Neighbors looking out for each other, sharing updates, and offering a helping hand can make a significant difference.

This winter, as we enjoy the beauty and festivities it brings, let's also remember to be cautious of the hidden hazards like black ice. A little vigilance can ensure the season remains safe and enjoyable for everyone in our community. Stay warm, stay safe! As residents of Bowie, Maryland, and its neighboring communities brace for the upcoming winter weather, it's crucial to stay informed and prepared.

FY 2024 Budget Challenges in Prince George's County: Education Focus, Public Safety Funding, and Fiscal Sustainability

In Prince George's County, the fiscal year 2024 presents significant financial challenges, with a looming budget deficit that could escalate from $183 million in 2025 to $387 million by 2030 without revenue increases or spending cuts. Complicating matters are legal mandates like the $88.4 million required for the Blueprint for Maryland's Future plan, further straining the budget.

County Executive Angela Alsobrooks has proposed a $5.4 billion operating budget for FY 2024, allocating nearly 62% of general funds (about $2.8 billion) to education, specifically the Board of Education for local public schools. Public safety receives around 20% of these funds, with the rest supporting various county operations.

The budgeting process revealed a $60 million revenue shortfall, addressed by using reserve funds instead of cutting services or raising taxes. This shortfall affected the county's ability to fully fund certain initiatives, including the Guaranteed Basic Income program and crime reduction efforts. However, funding was increased for firefighters, public safety training, and community support programs.

This situation mirrors the challenges faced by local governments in balancing essential services with fiscal sustainability post-pandemic, emphasizing the intricate decision-making in local governance and budgeting.

Capitals and PGCPS Partnership Brings Hockey to Local Schools

The Washington Capitals, in partnership with Prince George’s County Public Schools, have launched an initiative to teach hockey to over 93,460 students. This expansion of the Capitals Hockey School program, supported by Capital One, increases its reach to over 1 million students yearly across multiple counties in Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C. The program includes providing equipment and a standardized curriculum, and is part of the Capitals' $3.5 million investment in youth hockey, funded by the NHL's Industry Growth Fund.

“The Best of…” is coming to the Bowie Insider

Wonder no more! We will be introducing the “Best of…” in Bowie and the Regional Area as a weekly series. Stay tune as we ask for you to nominate businesses in the following categories and more. Each winner will be interviewed and featured in an issue of the Bowie Insider.

Start thinking about who you will vote for as the Best Coffee Shop in the Bowie Area. We will ask you to provide the name of your favorite coffee shop, collect and tally the votes then announce the winner.

How did we do in this issue of Bowie Insider?